Sleep Apnea
Understanding Sleep Apnea
Imagine your sleep as a tranquil passage through the night, a period for your body and mind to rejuvenate. Yet, for some, especially those with sleep apnea, this calm voyage can turn into a restless journey.
Chittenden Sleep in Burlington, Vermont, sheds light on sleep apnea, a condition marked by repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. These interruptions can span a few seconds to minutes and occur multiple times, disrupting the sleep cycle.
This happens because, during sleep, our muscles, including those in the throat and airway, relax. In some individuals, this relaxation is excessive, causing the airway to partially or fully block, reducing oxygen levels and leading to frequent, brief awakenings. These awakenings, often unnoticed, hinder the progression into deeper, restorative sleep stages, leaving one feeling unrefreshed despite a full night’s sleep.
If sleep apnea is a concern, there’s no need for alarm. The first step is to share your symptoms with a healthcare professional. They might suggest a sleep study, either in a clinic or at home, to confirm the diagnosis. Once diagnosed, a range of treatment options is available.
Options include lifestyle adjustments, such as weight management or changing sleep positions, using a CPAP machine to maintain open airways, or custom oral appliances. Good sleep is vital for overall well-being, and fortunately, sleep apnea is often treatable.
If you think sleep apnea is affecting your sleep, it’s crucial to discuss it with your healthcare provider. Together, you can embark on a journey towards a restful night and a healthier, more energetic you.
What Occurs During Sleep Apnea?
Lack of Airflow
Repetitive collapse of the pharyngeal airway during sleep leads to reduction or complete cessation (apnea) of airflow, despite continuous breathing efforts.
Neural Signals from the Brain
The brain tells your body to catch a breath. Cessations in breath can prevent oxygen supply to your brain. Your brain is literally waking you up to tell you to breathe.
Repetition of the Cycle
Individuals experiencing obstructive sleep apnea frequently encounter a pattern of repeatedly ceasing and resuming their breathing during sleep.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
- Loud Snoring
- Witnessed Cessations in Breathing
- Gasping for Breath While Sleeping
- Waking with a Dry Mouth
- Morning Headaches
- Sleeping DIfficulties
- Problems Staying Alert
- Mood Swings
- Sexual Disfunction
How to Address Sleep Apnea
Have a Chat with Dr. Mike Morris
Talk to Dr. Morris if you have signs or symptoms as sleep apnea is serious.
Undergo a Sleep Test with us
You can choose to have an in home sleep test or opt for a sleep clinic.
Research Treatment Options
Reserach possible sleep apnea treatment options with Chittenden Sleep.
Your Treatment for Sleep Apnea
Once diagnosed talk to us about sleep apnea solutions such as oral appliance therapy.